The Yreka Miners track and field team has high hopes for another successful season, which begins on Tuesday at home.

Last year, the Miners finished second in both the varsity boys and girls division in the Northern Athletic League and the boys team won the Division II Northern Section title. Yreka also had four athletics quality for state. two of them, Jena Turner, who qualified in the 100-meter hurdles, and Kaden Culp, who qualified in the high jump returning this year. Both are juniors.

On Tuesday, Yreka is hosting the Siskiyou County Schools Scrimmage, which begins at 3:30 p.m. at Miner Stadium. Below, Yreka High head coach Orlyn Culp discusses the upcoming season and the meet on Tuesday.

What are your expectation for this team heading into the season?

Varsity Girls: We have some very talented individuals on the varsity girls team (Jena Turner, Emily Andrus, Ashley Ensminger, Angela Henson, Justine Cota, Katie Brummett). What we'll need to do is develop some depth so the team has a chance to compete for an NAL title.

Varsity Boys: As the defending Back-to-Back Division II Section Champions, we expect the VBs team to compete once again for that overall team title. We should also be in a good position to control our own destiny in the NAL as well, since West Valley is not in the conference this season.

What are some of the events you think your squad will be strong in this season?

Early season practices are all about "conditioning" and getting into track and field shape. So far athletes have been working hard and preparing for competition.

You begin the season at home on Tuesday with the Siskiyou County Schools Scrimmage meet. I know this has become a tradition for area schools to kick off the season. Can you tell me a bit about the event and its importance for area schools and your program.

The Siskiyou County Schools Scrimmage is an opportunity for area athletes to "get on the track" and compete against someone other than their own teammates. It's a great early opportunity for coaches to see how athletes will compete. It also establishes early marks and times so coaches can get athletes into the early season invitationals.

Page 2 of 2 - You have two state qualifiers last year in Jena Turner and Kaden Culp that are returning this season. Can you tell me a bit about your expectations for them this season.

Number one goal for both is to "stay healthy". If both those athletes can stay healthy and continue to develop, they should once again contend for league and sectional titles. Time, effort, rest, and staying healthy will be keys to each.

Who else do you think has a shot to do well in sections and perhaps make state this season?

You have been head track and field coach here for a number of years. What is it about the sport that appeals to you?

There's a purity to Track and Field competition that is very gratifying. Coaching is important, but, it really all comes down to the athletes and how the compete. That is fun to be a part of. I also enjoy the fact that track and field is a sport for every athlete. Meaning the championship level athlete and the beginner just learning about individual fitness can participate and enjoy the sport on relative yet equal levels.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'd like to say, "Thank you" to this great community for supporting all the student-athletes in their endeavors. This is a community that cares about our kids and it shows in their support.